HOW TO CHOOSE A VS DIAMOND

First off, there are two different categories of VS diamonds. They are VS1 and VS2. VS1 is the higher clarity and better of the two grades.

VS diamonds have small insignificant inclusions in the stone that are microscopic only. Meaning you won’t see them with the bare eye just by looking at the stone. you can only see these flaws and imperfections under 10x magnification (with a microscope or a 10x jeweler’s loupe).

VS1 diamonds will either have small inclusions, less of them, or better placement, making them appear cleaner and less included. But the minute differences between a VS1 and a VS2 are mostly opinionated and subjective. It’s very hard to tell the differences between them. And either clarity is eye-clean and simply beautiful. So the biggest difference will be in price, and even that is really hit or miss. Not enough to make a difference.

So how do you choose a VS diamond?

With your eyes and by comparing diamonds side-by-side.

There are literally thousands of VS diamonds to choose from. So looking at the diamonds magnified, and comparing all the attributes, you can quickly decide upon the best diamond for your budget.

Compare the two VS Diamonds below:

They are identical in every way, except ine is a VS1 and the other a VS2. But everything else including characteristics like symmetry, polish, and fluorescence are identical. Yet there are slight visual differences between them. This is because every diamond is different, and each diamond faces up differently.

The flaws are in different spots (think about how every fingerprint is different and unique), the cut is slightly different, the light interaction is different. It makes them all appear similar, but not exact.

You see, grading is on a range, a spectrum, and small characteristics along the way can alter a diamonds appearance. This is why it is so important to compare similar diamonds and really look at the visual beauty and sparkle of a diamond before deciding. That’s what truly matters. One diamond will dazzle more than the other. It could also look whiter, appear brighter, face up bigger…

Let your eyes be the judge.

Plus, you should also compare higher and lower colors and different cuts as well, to really see how much they change and how far you can stretch your dollar.

Compare the diamonds below:

It’s fascinating how much variance VS diamonds can exhibit.

And if you still need help deciding, there are a few guidelines that can point you in the right direction.

Great VS diamonds:

I would always recommend D, E, F color, excellent cut, excellent symmetry, and excellent polish to really make your diamond pop. These grades will assure you that the diamond you buy will be as bright and beautiful as possible, and get you more bang for your buck.

Just like these diamonds here:

See these diamonds, and more at James Allen.

Cheers! :)